Guban View: The Insurrection in Las Anood, another critical battle for Somaliland freedom
For too long, the people of Las Anood have waited patiently for justice. More than 40 assassinations of government officials—including judges, prosecutors, and election supervisors—remain unresolved. Understandably, many in Las Anood feel betrayed by this failure. Their frustration is real, and their grief is shared by Somalilanders everywhere.
But frustration over justice delayed cannot justify the destruction we have recently witnessed. In the past few days, Las Anood has seen violence, massive property damage, and the senseless deaths of over 20 people. Law enforcement, confronted by rioters armed with guns and machetes, was forced to use deadly force to restore order. My heart goes out to every family—victims, police, soldiers, and civilians—who have suffered in this tragedy.
What unfolded on the streets of Las Anood was not peaceful protest. It was mob violence, jihadist infiltration, and outright insurrection. Anti-Somaliland extremists—al-Shabaab, Al-Ictisaam militants, and other agitators—exploited the chaos, hiding behind women and children while pushing an agenda of destruction. We must be clear: Somaliland has the right and responsibility to use every necessary measure to restore order and protect its people. The madness must stop.
The unrest has made it crystal clear that Somaliland must urgently confront these radical groups. They do not believe in our constitution, our democratic system, or our flag. Their mission is nothing less than to destroy Somaliland—even if it means burning Las Anood, a town that has flourished for two decades.
These extremists also wage war online, spreading lies on social media to sow hatred. They accuse Somaliland forces of committing “genocide”—a false and reckless claim. They allege that our government orchestrated assassinations of its own supporters—a baseless accusation. What would Somaliland gain from killing those who stand with its administration?
Some politicians and media figures amplify these lies for their own gain. Cirro, who aspires to the presidency, used inflammatory language to describe the unrest, calling it “deliberate genocide.” Such rhetoric is not only false—it incites violence against our security forces. Our police, firefighters, and soldiers—earning as little as $100 a month—risk their lives daily to protect us. They deserve our gratitude, not slander.
That said, the people of Las Anood deserve answers. After peace is restored, Somaliland must prioritize solving the assassinations that fueled so much mistrust. President Bihi has promised to accelerate investigations, noting that dozens of suspects are already in custody. His decision to withdraw the army from Las Anood and arrest two soldiers shows a willingness to uphold justice, even within the ranks of security forces. He has also made clear: he took an oath to defend Somaliland, preserve peace, and deliver justice.
General Cambaashe, commander of the Somaliland army in the Sool region, has vowed to restore order and warned outsiders seeking to destabilize Las Anood that swift action will follow. This is the most basic duty of government: maintaining public safety and protecting citizens from criminals and extremists.
Yet security alone will not heal Somaliland. We must also build a climate of trust, reconciliation, and tolerance. Tribalism, division, and hate must give way to kinship, unity, and democratic resolution of disputes—through peaceful dialogue and the ballot box, not bullets.
The extremists’ ultimate goal is to drag Somaliland into the chaos that defines Mogadishu and the so-called Federal Republic of Somalia. But Somaliland’s destiny is already decided. In 2001, our people freely and overwhelmingly chose independence. That decision stands, and it will endure.
Somaliland must remain vigilant. Freedom is never permanent—it is always one generation away from extinction. We must protect it with courage, resolve, and unity.
To the good people of Las Anood, caught in the middle of this violence: your future belongs with Somaliland. Order will be restored. Justice will come. Peace will return. And Somaliland will prevail.
Ali-Guban Mohamed
Founder and Editor
Gubanmedia.com, an online source of news and commentary about the Horn of Africa.
aliadm18@gmail.com
